US singing guidance
Are we allowed to sing in schools?
In the United States, we must follow all district, state/local and CDC guidelines. The CDC recommends that people, including teachers, staff, and students, wear masks in public settings when around people who live outside of their household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
The CDC states the following for students in choir, band, or music class settings:
- When students are not singing or playing an instrument that requires the use of their mouth, they should wear a mask in music class (unless class is outdoors and distance can be maintained).
- Social distancing helps protect students in music class.
- While students are singing or playing an instrument, use visual cues to keep them at least 6 feet apart. If it’s safe and weather permits, consider moving class outdoors where air circulation is better than indoors and maintain at least 6 feet distance between students.
With these considerations, some schools have opted to only run music classes virtually, to see students in small pods, run classes outdoors, or (unfortunately) eliminate singing and instruments in their schools for the 2020-2021 school year. Many have found success through outdoor singing, which is generally the simplest and safest solution. However, every state and school district has different guidelines for singing in school. It’s important you follow your own district’s policies to keep your students safe, and be sure to discuss with your administrator any questions you may have. Let’s sing together safely!
Source: Additional Considerations for the Use of Masks Among K12 Students.
Schools have got so much to think about right now - why is singing important?
The vital role of music and the wider arts in supporting mental health, social engagement, and learning in children is well recognised globally, backed by high quality scientific data. This role of music is more important now, during a global crisis, than ever, given the wide-ranging challenges being faced by children and families. Dr. Daisy Fancourt, University College London